US helping Pakistan to address climate change: Blome

FAISALABAD:

US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome has said the United States is partnering with Pakistan to respond to climate change and is making strategic investments in renewable energy, water management, and smart agriculture to help better position Pakistan to meet the threat.

In a statement delivered at the launch of the Climate Smart Agriculture Activity at Faisalabad's University of Agriculture, Blome said the US has contributed $1 billion to the Green Climate Fund, unlocking millions of these dollars in climate mitigation and adaptation projects to enhance Pakistan's resilience.

"In agriculture alone, our investments have benefited more than one million rural households. We have helped farms and firms increase the value of their sales by more than $1.47 billion and create more than 100,000 new jobs.

"From the 'Green Revolution' to the 'Green Alliance', the United States and Pakistan have worked together to benefit the people of both our countries. I can't wait to see what discoveries and innovations grow from the seeds we are planting today," he added.

Blome noted that unpredictable weather, heatwaves, and irregular rainfall are making it harder for Pakistani farmers to grow the crops that support their families and feed the nation. "Together, we're working to help Pakistan become more resilient to climate threats," he said.

Talking with reference to the US-funded Climate Smart Agriculture Activity, he said through this five-year investment, the US will partner with farmer organizations, local businesses, and research institutions.

"We will focus on better farming practices and technology; new digital tools; and assistance with business models, financing, and international connections.